Finn Moes ’27 and Gabby Samy ’27 in the roles of Jean Valjean and Fantine, performed as part of the cast of the Winter Musical, Les Misérables, with Abigail McMillin ’25 as the Old Woman, a featured ensemble member.
on the cover:
Clockwise from top right: Robert M. Schumo Academic Center, third floor arts room in Kehs Hall, Riordan Hall, Innovation Center and Kolbe West Entrance, Kehs Hall and carriage house, flags in Schumo Academic Center, school seal and academic key, original school building, embroidered navy blue blazer Center, top to bottom: old Kriebel Hall, installation of cupola on Kriebel Hall, Carnegie Library, postcard introducing co-education
Carol
Isabella
Abigail Rose-Craver ’14
Sofia Tsudia ’26
Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 Karl
Perkiomen School Headmasters from 1875 to present
Not pictured: Andrew Hetrick, 1884-1885; James Griffith, 1887-1890; and Webster Stover, 1932-1935.
Oscar S. Kriebel, 1892-1932
Stephen Roberts, 1951-1966
Jack Rothenberger, 1968-1969
Albert Rodgers, 1944-1951
Clarence Tobias, 1935-1944
James Brown, 1969-1972
Howard Deischer, 1972-1974
Andrew Berky, 1966-1968
John Hewett, 1974-1985
Charles Wieand, 1875-1884
Dear Perkiomen Community,
This year marks a truly momentous occasion – the 150th anniversary of our school’s opening. In a three-story Victorian home, just off the tracks of the local railroad, Charles Wieand founded what we know today as Perkiomen School. When I think about Charles, I am amazed by the drive and the forethought he must have had at that time, and I am re-inspired to continue his work. The stories fill me with immense pride and gratitude for the rich legacy that has shaped the institution we are today.
Since 1875, our school has evolved and adapted, remaining strong in its mission of Solvitur vivendo – to solve while living. Some change has been a result of choice – adding iPads, building dormitories, creating the Institutes, and some has been thrust upon us – including the realities of war, tragedy, and pandemic.
Through it all, we owe our success to the contributions of thousands of faculty and staff members, students, alumni, and families who have walked through the doors of Kriebel Hall, carried our traditions forward, and wrote their own stories along the way.
As we celebrate our remarkable history, we are also excited to look ahead to what is next. This milestone is not just a time to reflect but an opportunity to embrace the future of learning. We are committed to continuing our tradition of academic excellence by introducing innovative programs that prepare our students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
In this issue, I invite you to read about our Technology of Wireless Communication class, where students gain an appreciation for the components of communication through the handson application of amateur radio. The course emphasizes the integration of technology, mathematics, science, geography, language skills, and social responsibility within our global society.
We have also added an Investment Club. With alumni support, this new initiative is designed to engage students within the world of finance, gain practical knowledge of the markets, and learn about financial literacy. They are taking safe risks and learning by doing.
Construction on our Student Center is complete, expanding the space available for students to gather – to develop connections, share meals and snacks, collaborate on institute research, face off in the latest video game, or rehearse for their next performance. This space is a game changer for our campus and our community, having an impact in all areas of student life. It will also be home to new course offerings and extra-curricular opportunities, providing a dedicated space for students to expand their vision and explore their passions. Courses like Chemistry of Nutrition will use the teaching kitchen as a lab, while the state-of-the-art video studio will support content creation and media interests. The center will highlight the importance of the arts, with work areas for metalsmithing, jewelry making, and Advanced Placement 2D and 3D art, along with gallery and performance space.
With each new year, we commit to inspiring our students to think critically, investigate creatively, and develop the skills needed to thrive in our rapidly evolving world. Your support helps to ensure that they are prepared to lead, innovate, and succeed in a world that is more interconnected and dynamic than ever before. Thank you for the role you play in this incredible journey. Together, we will continue to build a school that not only honors the past but also paves the way for an even brighter future.
Sincerely,
Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24 Head of School
George K. Allison,
Christopher R. Tompkins,
Mark A. Devey, 2015-present
The Power
Perkiomen School’s 150th Anniversary Talks of Memory:
by Isabella Poole, Communications Intern
“I’m a TED Talk fan; I watched my first TED Talk in middle school and was captivated by the way speakers shared their stories and unique perspectives,” says Tang. Her passion for public speaking and storytelling, combined with encouragement from Associate Head of School Carol Dougherty, ignited the idea of creating a TEDx-inspired event. Although their application for an official TEDx license was not approved, Tang decided to forge ahead, adapting the format to celebrate Perkiomen’s 150-year legacy.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Tang was also one of the event’s standout speakers, and captivated the audience with her story of perseverance. After moving to the United States and enrolling at Perkiomen, Tang discovered lacrosse, a sport she had never encountered before. Initially struggling as a novice, she often felt like the weakest member of her team. However, her determination to improve turned obstacles into steppingstones. By her second year, she secured a starting position and was honored as the Most Improved Player at the annual Varsity Awards. Tang’s journey underscored the importance of resilience, hard work, and the personal growth that comes from embracing challenges.
Philosophical Insights on Memory
Larry Jackson, Ph.D. ’95, a Perkiomen alumnus and dean at Columbia University, provided a thought-provoking perspective on the historical significance of memory. Drawing from ancient Greek philosophy, Jackson explained how memory was once regarded as a cornerstone of education and a pathway to immortality. Contrasting this with modern reliance on data and technology, he called for a return to a deeper understanding of memory as a tool for creating human connections and enriching our lives.
The Power of Shared Experiences
Robyn E. Hannigan, Ph.D. P ’28, president of Ursinus College and an environmental scientist, reflected on her childhood experiences and the role of memory in shaping her identity. She recounted
a transformative visit to a museum as a young girl, an experience that ignited her passion for learning and exploration. Hannigan emphasized that memories are not only deeply personal but also shared moments that connect individuals across generations.
Celebrating Legacy Through Storytelling
The event, which also honored Perkiomen School’s 150-year history, showcased a rich tapestry of stories and insights. From the nostalgic reflections of students to the philosophical musings of educators, the talks demonstrated that memories are much more than fleeting moments; they are the building blocks of identity, knowledge, and community.
Tang’s vision for the event was to evoke these profound emotions and further connections through storytelling.
“Perkiomen is a school with a long history of 150 years,” she says. “We have the most intelligent and enthusiastic students and teachers. This event was an opportunity to gather everyone together and celebrate the moments that have made us who we are.”
Looking Ahead
As the 150th Anniversary Talks concluded, the audience was reminded of the transformative power of memory. While individual memories may fade, their influence endures, shaping the people we become and the communities we build. Perkiomen School’s celebration served as a testament to the importance of cherishing the past while looking forward to the future—a perfect blend of reflection and inspiration.
Thank you to our participants: Tony Coleman ’14; Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24; Jackson Dorris ’27; Bladimir Garcia P ’30; Larry Jackson ’95; Saoirse Manion ’28; Louisy Roest; Ameila Tang ’26; Sofia Tsudia ’26; Tommy Winslow ’25; Vy Vo ’26; and Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19.
In October 2024, Perkiomen School hosted a remarkable TED Talk-style event in honor of its 150th anniversary, featuring an impressive lineup of speakers, including Board of Trustee Member Larry Jackson ’95, Associate Dean at Columbia University, and Current Parent Robyn Hannigan P ’28, President of Ursinus College. Led by Amelia Tang ’26, the event brought together students, faculty, and distinguished guests to explore how memories shape our identities, influence our decisions, and connect us as a community.
Tang, the event’s visionary organizer, was inspired to create the talks around the theme, Memories Build the Foundation.
Larry Jackson, Ph.D. ’95
Robyn E. Hannigan, Ph.D. P ’28
Amelia Tang ’26
Build the Foundation Memories
by Louisy Roest, Director
of the Design Institute and Arts Faculty
Editor’s Note: The following is the transcript of text delivered by Louisy Roest at the 150th Anniversary Talks.
150 Years!
Our individual memories, our experiences, shape our perceptions, they shape our decisions. And each decision leads to another. Decisions on top of decisions, brick on top of brick, we’re all building our tomorrows on top of our todays. Students, you’re building a foundation now, your masterpieces come later.
A foundation supports the structure above it. Digging in the dirt is a prerequisite to reaching for the sky. The piles of earth we move here, our struggles with our different stones, will be out of sight and out of mind buried by the lives we live, and then in the memories left behind.
Behind our updated façades, beneath our wealth of experiences, we here are all supported by a shared foundation, Perkiomen. This school is a prominent piece of all of our individual foundations. And the opposite is also true, we are each a piece of this place. As a group we are the many stones that together make up the foundation of something evolving, something growing. A part of a perspective that changes and a history written and forgotten and sometimes revived. Together we are Perkiomen’s memory.
The students of Perkiomen school have, for 150 years, built a great many foundations here. On top of them they’ve gone on to build families, careers, businesses, legacies. And they’ve come back to this campus’ foundations, to these roots, generation after generation giving in gratitude back to the next generation. Together, they are part of a single memory, a single architecture, Perkiomen. A structure we build together, and also a keystone in each of our structures.
In that vein, let’s take a very short trip down memory lane. Where, in 1875, a young person named Charles Samuel Wieand founded our school as Perkiomen Seminary. When I say young, I mean he was just 27 years old. I doubt he had any inclination at the time that a century and a half later, we’d be gathered here to pay homage to thousands upon thousands of individual foundations that have spread from his initial humble excavation.
Perkiomen was not Reverand Wieand’s destination but instead served as a piece of his own foundation. He served the school for nine years. Over the next eight years Perkiomen almost disappeared. It was reborn in 1892. That year there were just four teachers and 19 pupils here, and Dr. Oscar Kriebel took the helm. He would lead for the next 40 years! And Perkiomen began to blossom.
By the turn of the century, we had become a community boasting 30 teachers with an enrollment of over 300 students. The school’s first international student arrived from Korea in 1896, soon followed by students from Mexico, Cuba, Thailand (then Siam) and China. In just those first few decades from its inception, the Perkiomen population came to represent students from all over the United States and from dozens of foreign nations. We started out coeducational, became a boys’ school for about 50 years in the middle, and coeducationalized in 1969.
Now, more than ever, we pride ourselves on being a diverse and far-flung community whose vast backgrounds, talents, and accomplishments, are all born from a vast but singular repository of memories.
You all take from this repository, and you all give back to it. Memories of Perkiomen span centuries, a network that spreads all around the earth, they connect us with the past, present, and future. Just as Reverand Wieand could not have known the impact a handful of decisions made in his twenties would later have on our lives today, neither can any of us predict how the actions we take as individual members of Perkiomen, from the grand to the infinitesimal, will grow to affect countless, infinite, futures.
Five, 10, 50 years from now, what, if anything, will you remember about today?
One hundred and fifty years from now, when Perkiomen School turns 300, what will they be remembering about any of us? And more importantly, how will they have been affected - by all of us?
Memory is not just a reservoir of our past experiences; it is a dynamic and evolving construct that influences who we are and how we interact with the world around us. At its core, memory is built upon the experiences we gather throughout our lives. These experiences are filtered through our senses, emotions, and thoughts, creating a unique tapestry that defines our understanding of the world. However, it is crucial to recognize that memory is not static; it is subject to change. The way we view an important memory today may not be the way we view it in the future.
In short time, our happiness and sadness, our pride and embarrassment, today’s hopes and fears, will be distant memories. In 150 years, I wonder how many awkward first dances were stumbled through? How many young hearts broken and lifelong friendships formed? How many tests aced or failed? How many games won or lost? How many innumerable futures decided, and other paths forgone? And, who can remember?
These moments we’re sharing will be buried, lost, hidden away and forgotten. Bricks underneath more bricks, covered in dust and decayed by weather. To be excavated and studied by our distant successors. Someday, within our own lineage, we will seem alien. Our discoveries, our memories, all we build, the very foundation of our lives will someday seem antiquitous, ancient, unknown even to ourselves. Our hardest, softest, and most vivid moments will be pressed into stone, buried in mortar, and stood upon. New cities are built upon the ruins of the old. Not in spite of them, but because of them.
t
We are here today to celebrate 150 years of the memories of Perkiomen’s past, but more than that, we are here to celebrate the next 150 years of Perkiomen’s future. As yesterday’s memories are the foundation of today, today’s memories will be the foundation of tomorrow. The difference is that looking backwards, history is short, but looking forwards, it is endless. Thank you, Reverand Wieand, Doctor Kriebel, and all of you here today. Who we are in this moment will someday be forgotten. But who we become together can continue to grow, exponentially.
q
Oscar S. Kriebel and Trustees in the 1890s
t Perkiomen’s five female students in 1969
Louisy Roest, Director of the Design Institute
Charles Samuel Weiand in the 1850s
Through student and faculty participation in her study, Olivia Alderfer ’25 sought to determine if specific ingredients in popular face moisturizers impact the way the product absorbs into the skin.
A HydroSensor was used to measure skin hydration.
The Absorption Levels of Different Moisturizers into the Skin Based on Ingredients Medical Institute
Looking to determine the best product for moisturizing the face, Olivia Alderfer ’25 designed an experiment to investigate the absorption of eight well-known moisturizers. By analyzing changes in skin hydration levels, Alderfer learned which moisturizers would provide the most lasting hydration and whether the composition of ingredients significantly affects the absorption into the skin.
“I’ve always been interested in taking care of my skin,” says Alderfer. “I struggle with dry skin and wanted to see for myself what would work best and how to implement that.”
Alderfer sought to determine if there were a certain combination of ingredients that would work best for most people and chose popular skin products and brands that are affordable and accessible at major drugstores or retail outlets.
Volunteer participants were assigned four moisturizers each, applied to the forearm, and their skin hydration was measured using a HydroSensor before application, immediately after, and two hours later.
Her hypothesis was supported by the research. Moisturizers with the best retention over two hours had a combination of ceramides and niacinamide which create a comprehensive approach to repairing and moisturizing the skin barrier. These same moisturizers also had emollients, humectants, and occlusives.
CAPSTONE
As reported in Alderfer’s research, emollients like shea butter, fatty acids, and ceramides soften and smooth skin by filling gaps between cells and improving barrier function. Niacinamide helps boost the production of ceramides and skin lipids. Humectants such as glycerin, and hyaluronic acid draw moisture into the skin from deeper layers and the environment. Occlusives like petroleum jelly and beeswax form a barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss.
Alderfer concluded that the brands of moisturizers with the best retention included Byoma, CeraVe, and La-Roche Posay. She was surprised to discover one of her personal skin care choices was not effective.
“I’ve been using a product since I was young, and that ended up preforming the worst,” says Alderfer. “It had consistently low readings at the start of the test, and I learned it did not have as many of key ingredients and not as much water.” This path of discovery will continue for Alderfer as she continues her education at St. Joseph’s University, where she will study nursing. She is considering a career as a labor and delivery nurse or may pursue dermatology, as a nurse practitioner.
“Being in the Institutes helped me to decide where I want to go with my career,” says Alderfer. “It has helped me develop critical thinking skills which I will need as a nurse.”
The Lemon Love Project is a social venture developed to support underserved communities in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, the county that Perkiomen School is located in. In 2022, an estimated 74,000 people in the country experienced food insecurity, according to Feeding America. This equates to 8.6% of the county’s population. Homelessness is also on the rise, and resources are limited.
Looking to support their less fortunate neighbors, The Lemon Love Project team made and sold lemonade to raise funds to donate to local non-profits.
“At first, I didn’t know what to expect within the Entrepreneurship class,” says Justin Murray ’25. “I knew I wanted to make a difference in the world, but I didn’t know exactly how to do that. And that’s when Deven’s idea came forward and I couldn’t resist. This class has given me an opportunity to develop more as a student and more as a person.”
Entrepreneur Institute The Lemon Love Project
The team – Benjamin Andrasick ’25, Alexandre Lafleche ’25, Caroline Mellon ’25, Justin Murray ’25, Sofiia Polozhay ’26, and Deven Shetty ’26 – understood that they needed to work on setting their product apart and wanted to differentiate themselves from a typical lemonade stand. They were looking for a community-based solution to help their neighbors, where their peers could participate. They collaborated with Perkiomen’s newly formed Baking Club, who donates half of their sales to a charitable organization, to sell themed baked goods as well.
This project evolved from the Honors Entrepreneurship class, which is a Dual Enrollment course with the University of Delaware. The Lemon Love Project won the Perkiomen Pitch Competition which led them to present at the Rutgers University Pitch Competition.
“Pitching at Rutgers was such a surreal experience,” says Murray, “being able to connect with people just like me that are all working towards the same goal is a once in a lifetime experience.”
Deven Shetty ’27, Alex Lafleche ’25, Justin Murray ’25 and Ben Andrasick ’25 collaborated on the Lemon Love Project.
CAPSTONE
Jane Manion ’26 challenged herself to an independent study in fashion design, combining art, design and emotional expression.
Early sketches of the new Institute
Jane Manion ’26 is working to redesign the Institute logos.
logos.
CAPSTONE
Design Institute Institute Logo Redesign & Animated Film
A $10 birthday gift card and global pandemic is what needed to happen for Jane Manion ’26 to invest in her first animation course. Over the next five years, what started as a simple curiosity led her to discover the world of character design, which progressed into her passion.
Manion began her time at Perkiomen as a middle school student, and now as a junior, her appreciation for all art forms has evolved, but she especially enjoys character design. Her hobby requires not only a strong imagination but also dedication and a desire to improve and sharpen her skills.
Manion’s eye for art and design motivates her to improve visual harmony, which is exactly what led her to join the Design Institute at Perkiomen. The Institutes at Perkiomen School are specialized programs designed to provide students with handson, real-world learning experiences in specific fields of interest, encouraging creativity and innovation. Building on this foundation, capstone projects serve as the final step where students apply their knowledge in a practical way. Manion was inspired to take on a significant design challenge, and she is currently working on creating Institute logos as part of her first capstone project.
What sparked this idea was a thought that arose as Manion began exploring the concepts of visual identity.
“Perkiomen’s Institute logos were created throughout the years, resulting in a diverse collection of images,” she explains. “I saw an opportunity to unify them and decided to take on this challenge. Perkiomen says, ‘We are a community. We are one. We all fit together. Our logos should also be cohesive. They should match Perk.”
Logo design and creation are not simple tasks. The challenge lies in creating a design that would represent not just a name, but a community. Manion’s creative process involves working with different people, like students and Institute directors, combining their ideas into a list of dos and don’ts and then making it all work together.
Because the Institute model is not common in traditional schools, Manion looks to existing college logos for inspiration. To follow the trends, she enjoys listening to graphic designers who critique other logos, helping her understand what she should and should not incorporate in her own work.
Manion considers herself to be a very opinionated person, so hearing and processing feedback has been a challenging task for her. However, working on this project really helped her with accepting other people’s feedback, and recognizing that it is a natural part of the design process.
“It’s a hard thing to overcome no matter how many years you’ve been doing art,” she admits. “But you need to learn how to take it. You can’t really say no to it.”
by Sofia Tsudia ’26
While her first capstone project focuses on graphic design, Manion does not see herself working in that field in the future, so she turned to her passion to fuel her work on her second capstone project.
“Jane really enjoys challenging herself,” says Director of the Design Institute Louisy Roest. “By working on two capstone projects, she is trying to stretch her abilities to build her experience and portfolio with anything in the arts – logo design, animation, and her independent study.”
Her second capstone project is an animated short film. With the help of her friend who is also seeking Design Distinction, Mia Frizzell ’26, Manion is focusing on animation for a film that emphasizes selfacceptance and being proud of oneself. This collaboration allows them to support each other creatively, with Manion handling the animation while Frizzell oversees the direction.
Creating a film is a very time-consuming process, and so Manion’s second capstone project is not due until December 2025. “It’s a nice spread of time, so I don’t have to focus on everything immediately,” shares Manion.
Meanwhile, despite already tackling two capstone projects under the Design Institute, Manion is also working on an Independent Study in fashion design.
“Independent Study is basically an art class guided by my interests,” says Manion. “So instead of being given specific instructions or following a pre-set curriculum, I am the one planning which direction I take my study.”
While she is assigned a project by a faculty advisor, Manion is the one defining it. Her current project involves combining art, design and emotional expression. It requires designing fashion pieces that incorporate an anatomical human heart symbol in different ways. Each design must be tailored to a specific gender (male or female), reflect a unique style (Glamour, Streetwear, Avant-Garde), and convey a particular emotion (sadness, happiness, peace, anger). These frameworks challenge Manion to think outside of the box.
“All these projects require time, dedication and small everyday commitment,” says Manion. “But because it’s art, and because I love art so much, it seems like it’s not a sacrifice as much as it is a trade.”
Manion’s unique approach to her work helps identify her personal preferences, which ultimately narrows down the path she wants to pursue in the future.
Every experience offers an opportunity for growth, even if it means making mistakes and facing one’s fears along the way. Whether it is a fear of criticism or fear of talking to people, it is important not to let these fears hold you back. As Manion notes, “Only after you overcome it, you realize, ‘everything is fine,’ which is a simple lesson, but an important one.”
Simulating the Natural World Artificial
For most people, “having your head in the clouds” is an English language idiom with a negative connotation, meaning someone is daydreaming, not paying attention to reality, or being unrealistically idealistic. It suggests that the person is lost in their thoughts, fantasies, or big ideas, rather than staying grounded and focused on practical matters.
However, when it comes to Alex Kelly ’25, this phrase couldn’t be more of a complement. While having his “head in the clouds,” he has found a way to focus, bring reality to fantasy, and carry what he has learned through to his next steps in life.
This year Kelly completed an Independent Study, where his work was applied to his Artificial Intelligence Institute Capstone. The objective was to simulate real-world clouds through the use of specialized software. These renderings could eventually be used in visual effects for film and television or in visualizing scientific pursuits. Kelly is also applying this knowledge to video game design.
With interests in astronomy, nature, and the environment, Kelly chose to work on clouds, which are a relatively new development in 3D design.
Kelly worked with two software programs - Houdini and Blender. Both are powerful 3D software tools with different applications. Kelly took a course to learn Houdini, while his use of Blender is self-taught.
Using influences and measurements that would be a factor in forming a cloud in the real-life atmosphere, approximate values are inserted into the Houdini program and then can be adjusted. The 3D rendering of the cloud then follows, taking up to 30 hours to complete.
“It’s all math really,” says Kelly. “Forming things like clouds is controllable and customizable.”
Wind, dissipation, ambient temperature, or disturbance are all forces that make a difference. Having even just one aspect missing can affect the rendering.
“If you have no temperature fall off, the cloud will look like a flame,” explains Kelly. “It would go straight up. The temperature fall off makes clouds come down, and makes its shape.”
Since 2022, Kelly has working with 3D rendering and visualization. He has built his own computer with money he has made from commission work. The added customized hardware allows him to accelerate the time the compositions take to finish.
His experience and talent got him noticed.
A group of developers and artists, The Forge Falcons, make game experiences inside of a video game called Halo. The experiences have maps and various components and can often take months to build. The Forge Falcons were looking for a graphic artist and reached out to Kelly via X to ask him to join the group. Kelly describes the experiences they make as its own game but built with the tools that are within Halo
Halo is a science fiction first-person shooter video game series set in the 26th century, where humanity is at war with a powerful alliance of alien races known as the Covenant. The main story follows Master Chief, a super-soldier in high-tech armor, and his AI companion, Cortana, as
they fight to protect Earth and uncover the secrets of ancient ring-like structures called Halos. The Halos are a type of super weapon built by an ancient civilization to combat a parasitic species called the Flood. The series is known for its epic story, large-scale battles, and innovative multiplayer modes.
Kelly’s role is to work on the aesthetics in the modes, like lighting, and also make thumbnails or other promotional materials. The thumbnails give players a snapshot of what they will see in the game itself. Kelly’s Independent Study and Capstone work are applied to his Halo-related creations. He uses Houdini to render the clouds, and Blender which emulates the real-world atmosphere.
“Houdini can do the cloud rendering,” explains Kelly, “but you also need sunlight, atmosphere, and sky. I have been fine tuning the other features of the world even before simulating the cloud.”
The sky is not the limit for Kelly now.
“Doing things like working with Halo Studios gets our name out there,” says Kelly. “It builds our resumes. It is great to have those collaborators and to be on those teams.”
In Fall 2024, Kelly was invited to the Halo Championship Series in Seattle to speak with his group as part of a panel.
“Halo Studios reached out to us, and they wanted to feature our experience so more people would see it,” says Kelly. Following that appearance, thousands of people have played it.
Building upon his hard work and the network of game designers and artists that he has formed during the last few years, Kelly is working toward 3D art and design as a career path. He will start that journey at Rochester Institute of Technology, studying game development and design.
Editor’s note: To find Kelly’s thumbnails within Halo, search for “Survive the Undead.”
Alex Kelly ’25 presents his capstone project, where he used computer software to simulate a 3D real-world environment.
Artificial Intelligence Institute
Alex Kelly ’25 designs the thumbnail images for game experiences inside of the Halo video game.
In October 2024, Alex Kelly ’25 was invited to Seattle to speak at the Halo Championship Series as part of a collaborative creative group, The Forge Falcons.
Watch Alex Kelly ’25 and the Forge Falcons on stage at HCS Worlds 2024.
by Isabella Poole, Communications Intern
Technology of Wireless Communication
At Perkiomen School, technology and innovation are at the forefront of education, and Jeffrey Rodgers, Ph.D, Director of the Institutes, is leading the charge with his new course on wireless technology. Rodgers has been busy both in the classroom and behind the scenes, working to integrate hands-on, real-world experiences into his students’ learning journey. From receiving grants to establishing a radio club, his work is making waves in the school’s academic environment.
The Inspiration Behind Teaching Wireless Technology
Rodgers’ passion for wireless technology comes from his personal involvement with ham radio, a hobby he’s been deeply invested in for the past few years. His enthusiasm for the subject, combined with a desire to share this knowledge with students, led him to create the Technology of Wireless Communication course. This course provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of science, technology, and communication, while developing skills in problem-solving, electronics, and radio science.
“The course aligns perfectly with Perkiomen’s broader academic goals by encouraging hands-on learning and preparing students for future careers in technology and communication,” says Rodgers.
A Professional Development Opportunity with the ARRL
To enhance the course’s curriculum, Rodgers attended a five-day professional development program hosted by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) in Newington, Conn. The program, which was fully funded by donors to the ARRL Education & Technology Program, gave teachers like Rodgers access to state-of-the-art equipment and exposure to new teaching techniques. He learned about various STEM topics, including electronic circuits, satellite communication, and amateur radio. The hands-on experience with equipment like
directional antennas and soldering tools inspired him to bring these techniques back to Perkiomen School.
“I’m excited to introduce the equipment and knowledge I gained from this workshop to my students,” Rodgers explains. “The skills and resources I received will allow my students to get hands-on experience with radio equipment, which is critical in today’s tech-driven world.”
Grants and Equipment Enhancing the Classroom Experience
Rodgers has been busy securing funding for the wireless technology course, and the results are impressive. Recently, he received the ARRL Education & Technology Program (ETP) Classroom Electronic Equipment (CEE) Grant, which will provide Perkiomen School with a Geochron 4K, a cutting-edge digital world clock and map display. This device, attached to a television display at the top of the stairs in Schumo Academic Center, shows the Earth’s time zones in real-time and is a valuable tool for teaching students about global communication and radio wave propagation.
“We’ll be using the Geochron 4K to teach students about time zones, geography, and how radio signals travel across the globe,” Rodgers explains. “It’s an invaluable visual aid for understanding international communications and satellite tracking.”
Rodgers also applied for and received the ARRL ETP School Station Grant, which provided $2,000 in radio equipment for the classroom, including a radio transceiver, antenna, and other tools to help students engage in more advanced projects, such as making real-world contacts and conducting experiments.
“Students will benefit immensely from this radio installation,” says Rodgers. “Instead of hypothetical discussions, students will be able to experience the magic of worldwide conversations at their fingertips with the transceiver directly in the classroom.”
The Perkiomen School Radio Club: KC3ZTI and Beyond
Another exciting development is the creation of the Perkiomen School Radio Club, which officially received its callsign from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), KC3ZTI. But Rodgers is aimed for even more – he obtained a vanity callsign, W3PSP, which stands for “Perkiomen School Panthers.” This callsign represents the school’s identity but also instills a sense of pride and ownership among students. “The vanity callsign W3PSP brings our school community closer to the world of wireless communication and help students feel more connected to the work they’re doing,” says Rodgers.
Student Engagement and Real-World Application
Students have responded enthusiastically to the course. They’ve had the chance to experiment with satellite communications, engage in “fox hunting” activities (locating hidden transmitters),
Jeff Rodgers’ ham radio hobby inspired him to bring wireless technology to the classroom.
Jeff and Allison Rodgers and students took advantage of a unique opportunity to interact with the International Space Station in April. The ISS experimented with transmitting images over the radio via data signal which can be recorded and then decoded. The ISS transmitted 12 images during that pass over campus, and the group captured two of them.
and even decode slow-scan television transmissions from the International Space Station.
“These projects allow students to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world context,” says Rodgers. “They’re not just studying theory; they’re working with actual equipment, learning, and engaging in regional and global communications.”
Rodgers hopes his students will gain a range of valuable skills, including an understanding of radio wave propagation, practical electronics knowledge, and a sense of how communication systems work on a global scale. He also emphasizes the importance of handson problem-solving, which will be beneficial in future careers.
There can also be opportunities to serve the community. These types of communication techniques are often used in emergencies. Rodgers volunteers with Montgomery County ARES and American Red Cross to use ham radio and communications, participating in training drills two or three times a year. In April, following his training, Rodgers reviewed the instructions and procedures with students.
Looking Ahead
As Rodgers continues to innovate in his classroom, he remains focused on helping students develop the technical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and global awareness necessary to succeed in the evolving world of technology and communication.
“I want my students to appreciate the process of point-to-point communication and understand the impact of wireless technology on the world around us,” he says. “Even if they don’t pursue ham radio as a hobby, the skills they’re learning will open doors in so many fields, from telecommunications to electronics.”
With grants, equipment, and hands-on learning, Perkiomen School’s wireless technology course is helping students connect to the world in new and exciting ways – and the future looks bright for these young innovators.
A Strong Connection
Through his ham radio hobby, Dr. Rodgers recently experienced a unique moment of Perkiomen connection. While using FT8, a digital communication mode for ham radio enthusiasts using just a callsign and location, Rodgers made an unexpected contact with an alumnus from the mid-1960s, living in Florida. Steven Roth ’64, callsign AD4K, was a two-year postgraduate student at Perkiomen, who reached out after recognizing Rodgers’ location near the school through a ham radio directory.
Roth shared fond memories of his time at Perkiomen and detailed his fascinating career in the military, government, and aviation. Following Perkiomen, Roth spent four years in the US Army, including time in Vietnam, working with Morse Code. After his military service, he worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for 30 years. He shared that his time at Perkiomen and time spent with Dean Lytle, who was the Dean of Students, made him realize he had potential.
“Perk taught me that I could do it if I wanted to,” shared Roth.
Rodgers is exploring ways to engage Roth further, considering his potential as a guest speaker for the ham radio class. This unexpected connection highlights the power of technology and shared interests in building community, while also offering an opportunity to bring alumni experiences into the classroom to enrich the educational journey for students.
Through hands-on learning, students are preparing for future careers in technology and communication.
Learning, Earning, Giving Back:
How One Club Transforms Investment into Impact
by Sofia Tsudia ’26
Throughout the academic year, Perkiomen offers various clubs that students have an opportunity to engage in. One of the newest and most engaging clubs that was established this year is the Investment and Philanthropy Club. The club presents a unique opportunity for students to not only learn how to invest but apply their knowledge in actual market conditions.
The club manages a real $50,000 endowment fund, which was established through the generosity of Sally Sharkey P ’03 and Board of Trustees member and alumnus Peter Sharkey Jr. ’03.
“In looking to give back to Perkiomen and the community, we wanted to accomplish two things,” says Peter Sharkey, Jr. ’03, “education for the students and of course a monetary gift for the school’s future developments and improvements.”
Sharkey’s own experience at Perkiomen is what influenced their decision to make this generous donation. Mathematics Department Chair Pete Dougherty, who was his economics teacher, played an annual game of investing pretend money throughout the academic year.
“Each student was given $100,000 of fake money to invest in the market however they felt was best,” says Sharkey. “The idea was to see who could generate the largest return on investment over the course of that school year. I always thought, wouldn’t it be great if the kids or school had a program that utilized real monetary funds for a project like this.”
Fast forward to 2025, and Dougherty and his students now can do just what Sharkey imagined.
Leadership in the club includes a president, vice president, and treasurer, who organize meetings and manage funds. After thorough research, club members pitch stock ideas, which is followed by group discussions and voting on which stock to purchase.
“Perkiomen School’s Investment and Philanthropy Club focuses on a diversified portfolio spanning sectors such as technology, energy, and healthcare to balance risk and return,” says Club President Luke Stubblefield ’25. “We emphasized researchdriven decisions and regularly re-evaluated our holdings to reflect market trends. The bylaws were created to keep everyone engaged and ensured clear guidelines for ethical investing, voting procedures, and philanthropic fund allocation. These structures promoted accountability and long-term sustainability in our investment approach.”
The club’s advisor, Dougherty, shares that the goal is to help students learn how to invest, but also to understand the value of giving back, as profits generated from investments are allocated to benefit the school.
“First, we invest in stocks. We learn about stocks, we make money,” says club Vice President Declan Nayak ’25. “Once we finish investing our money and hopefully see growth, then we invest it back into the school.”
The money earned can be used by any department at the school that makes a request and is approved by a school committee.
Earning,
Members of the Investment Club meet on Tuesdays in Pete Dougherty’s classroom.
“Usually, an additional meeting every week would become a chore, but I genuinely enjoy staying here, hanging out with people, and learning about investing, which I believe is incredibly valuable knowledge. It’s a great opportunity to learn about this now, so later in life, I will be able to apply my knowledge to my personal financial future.”
Rufus Ville ’26, Club Treasurer
Sharkey and Dougherty have confidence in the club members and the success that will follow their decisions. The students understand that being trusted to make these decisions on their own is a big responsibility, so they take it very seriously.
“Students have to convince everyone in the group that the stock they chose is good and explain why it is good,” says Dougherty, “They have to really look into the small details, because this is real money.”
Peter
Sharkey, Jr. ’03
2025 Commencement
It was a rainy and cool week for our end of year celebrations, however, for Commencement Day, we were grateful to be able to gather on the Campus Sward to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. Before lining up to process across Seminary Street, the entire class gathered on Schulz Plaza for their photo, and just before the shutter clicked, the sun popped out from behind the clouds.
Ninety-four degrees were confirmed on May 22, 2024, upon a class full of dreamers and doers, athletes and artists, researchers, creatives, and problem solvers.
The Class of 2025 has applied to over 300 colleges and universities, with students committing to attend institutions in 20 states, Washington, D.C., and Spain. The most popular choices include the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and Villanova University.
Graduates will also be attending notable institutions such as Bucknell, University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern, University of Rochester, University of Tampa, George Washington University, Wake Forest, Williams College, and William & Mary. This class also includes 35 student-athletes pursuing NCAA opportunities across Division I, II, III, NAIA, and NJCAA programs.
Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations and Chief Financial Officer Mike Foux served as Commencement Speaker. After 17 years of service to Perkiomen, Foux is retiring and as he shared with the class, they were experiencing “two very different transitions on one shared stage. You are beginning. I am concluding. But we share great memories made here at Perk that have changed us and will stay with us forever.”
p Commencement
Speaker Mike Foux
u Baccalaureate
Student Speaker
Tommy Winslow ’25
Valedictorian
Declan Nayak ’25
q Head of School Mark A. Devey and Phi Beta Kappa Award Winner Aiden Daniels ’25
Commencement
Foux’s imparted advice to the graduates centered around the following passage from Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw:
“This is the true joy in life—being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one. Being a force of nature instead of complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community, and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it what I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I’ve got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”
He concluded by sharing that he is passing his torch with confidence.
“Because if the future is in your hands, Perkiomen Class of 2025, I can relax and like Shaw, I can comfortably rejoice in life for its own sake.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! May you always be loyal, tried, and true.
u Alexis Abili ’25 and Jana CovinJones ’25 enjoy the photographs included in the Class of 2025 Art Installation.
u Pearl Bixler ’25, Zoe Kelly ’25, and Ava Reybitz ’25
qSenior and Post-Grad members of the baseball team
u Salutatorian
Lillian Gunder ’25
Football at Perkiomen School
When Perkiomen School was founded, football was an unfamiliar sport to the boys. There were very few who had any knowledge of the game, but they were willing to learn. In 1896, several students tried to organize a team, but it was canceled due to lack of interest. However, by the Spring of 1897, boys were asking about a team in the Fall.
By the next school year, a club was formed, and practice began. The first football game in Perkiomen’s history was played against Phoenixville Alumni, with Perkiomen winning 24-0.
The 1920s were a time of growth in Perkiomen Athletics, with football leading the way with versatile teams and players who continued on to play at schools like Colgate, Lehigh, and St. Bonaventure.
In the years following World War II, veterans returned as students, and the team was strong, even beating local colleges. During that time, Perkiomen’s football field and track were rebuilt thanks to the generosity of Robert Freeman who had given a donation in memory of his nephew who had died in the war, naming it Freeman Memorial Field.
Many valiant competitors wore the Perkiomen jersey through the years. There were lean years and some outstanding squads. Yearbooks and alumni newsletters report that no matter their size, numbers, or records, the teams always played with heart, grit, and determination. Special moments on the field –successful plays, inspirational coaches, and team camaraderie – were mentioned as favorite memories year after year.
In 2018, Perkiomen became the first team in Pennsylvania to play 8-man football, a growing version of football across the nation. Just one year later, Perkiomen successfully initiated the formation of the first 8-man football league, leading the way for the Keystone State 8-Player Football League (KSFL) to begin regional competition for the 2019-2020 school year.
With numerous prep schools dropping football, leaving little competition at our level, fewer students arriving with football experience, and ongoing safety concerns, Perkiomen made the difficult decision to discontinue competitive football at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year.
Although competitive football at Perkiomen School is coming to a close, the legacy it leaves behind is one of perseverance and pride. From its humble beginnings in the late 1800s to its pioneering role in 8-man football, Perkiomen’s football story is marked by courage, community, and a passion for the game. Generations of players, coaches, and fans contributed to a tradition that followed our motto – Solvitur vivendo . As the school looks ahead to new opportunities in athletics and student life, the spirit of Perkiomen football – its grit, heart, and camaraderie – will remain an enduring part of its history.
1934-1935 1904-1905
The 2024-2025 Football team gathers before the game during Fall Family Weekend.
The Cross Country team delivered a competitive and exciting season, fueled by a fresh mix of new and returning runners. At the PJAA Championship Meet, the girls team had an impressive showing, with all five runners finishing in the top 35. The boys team also excelled, with six runners placing in the top 20.
Boys Soccer finished the year with a winning record and made an appearance in the PAISAA Tournament, while playing their most competitive schedule in program history.
Girls Tennis won the PJAA Regular Season title and swept the PennJersey League Tournament, winning the league championship for a fourth consecutive year.
Sports Recaps 2024-2025
Volleyball finished the year with a 10-5 record winning the Independent Volleyball League championship and making the PAISAA Final Four for a third straight year.
Girls Soccer had their strongest season in program history - finishing the year with a 13-3-2 record, with wins over the Hill School, Mercersburg Academy, and Moravian Academy. They also won their first PAISAA tournament match in program history.
In its final season, Panthers Football finished third in the KSFL, with three players named to the KSFL All-League Team.
For a third straight year, Prep Boys Basketball finished the year with a winning record, going 9-8 against some of the best regional teams.
Golf finished as the runner up in the PJAA Tournament, as Luke Stubblefield ’25, Johnny Ho ’25, Alex Dobrocky ’25, and Lilly Hetrick ’26 all finished in the top 10 among all 30 golfers.
The boys Track & Field team finished fourth in PJAA competition, while the girls team placed third. Runners Delaney Levin ’27 and Pearl Bixler ’25 broke school records in the 1600and 3200-meter events, and the 300- and 400-meter events, respectively. At the PAISAA Championship Meets, Oleksii Sokolov ’26 placed in the top 10 in the hurdles, and Pearl Bixler ’25 earned a third-place finish in the 300-meter hurdles.
Boys Tennis finished first in the PJAA regular season, highlighted with a fourth consecutive championship in the league tournament and an appearance in the PAISAA Tournament.
Girls Lacrosse posted a 5-5 record playing an independent schedule for the first time, highlighted by a 14-4 win over the Hun School of Princeton.
National Basketball posted a 19-10 record, making the PAISAA Final Four for a fifth straight season and fourth consecutive appearance in the National Prep Championship Tournament.
The Prep Boys Lacrosse team finished the season with a 10–7 record, earning key victories over St. Joe’s Prep, the Hun School, and Woodberry Forest, and capping off the year with the program’s first-ever win in the PAISAA Tournament.
For the second consecutive year, Prep Baseball earned the No. 2 seed in the PAISAA Tournament and reached the final four for the third straight season.
The Winter Track team showed tremendous growth throughout the season, setting seven new school records this year.
Softball posted a 10-6 record, going undefeated in PJAA regular season play and finishing as the runner up in the PJAA Tournament.
For the third straight year, the Prep Girls Basketball team advanced to the quarterfinal round of the PAISAA Tournament.
The swim team put up a strong season, with lots of personal bests and some big milestones. At Easterns, the team wrapped things up strong, with the girls placing 28th overall and the boys finishing 25th.
Record Breakers and History Makers
From the track to the pool to the court, Perkiomen’s student athletes are not only adding to our school’s history, but also setting new standards of dedication, discipline, and drive. These students are exceeding every expectation, proving that with support, hard work, and a passion for their sport, limits are meant to be broken.
We honor our standout athletes from this past year who are not only leading their teams but also leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations.
KJ Cochran ’25 and his parents, Mr. Keith Cochran and Dr. Tammy James, in February 2025, after hitting the 1000-point milestone.
Basketball
KJ Cochran ’25, AllAmerican and Non-PIAA State Player of the Year, scored 1000+ points as a Perkiomen Panther, in just two years with the team.
Ryan Delp ’27 is the first swimmer in school history to swim the 500 Free in under five minutes.
Luke Schaefer ’26
Pearl Bixler ’25
Breakers Makers
Swimming
Ryan Delp ’27 swam the 500 Free in 4:58.05.
Luke Schaefer ’26 swam the 100 backstroke in 56:10.
Track & Field
Pearl Bixler ’25 and Delaney Levin ’27 each broke two records this Spring.
Eric Fanning ’12 with Coach Mark Longstreth and Athletic Director Ken Baker after scoring 1000 points.
Since 2000, 11 basketball players have scored more than 1000 points during their time at Perkiomen School.
1000 Point Club
(since 2000)
Bixler ran 300 M hurdles in 48.03 and 400 M run in 1:02:06.
Levin ran 1600 M in 5:51.3 and 3200 M in 12:24.
Kristen Burdo ’14 was present in 2024 as Lauren Patnode ’24 joined her in the 1000-point club.
Kelvin Green ’02
Sean Singletary ’03
Rashon Pearson ’04
Denzel Leslie ’09
Bruce Brittingham ’12
Eric Fanning ’12
Nicole Pupillo ’14
Kristen Burdo ’16
Thomas Haugh ’22/’23
Lauren Patnode ’24
KJ Cochran ’25
Laney Levin ’27
At the heart of campus, the new student center is nearing completion and will be open for the 2025-2026 school year.
PerkiomenPairs
Year by year, our Perkiomen family grows. Every August, new students arrive on campus, ready to begin their journey and leave their mark on a community that has thrived for more than 150 years. After graduation, Perkiomen students take their next steps into the world— but the connection endures. Whether at area gatherings, athletic events, theater performances, or through the occasional message online, our alumni stay connected, and Perkiomen is there for them through their life stories.
In 2019, after returning to campus for the first time for her 40th reunion, one alumna said it best, “It had been many years since I visited my alma mater, but reconnecting with my friends and former faculty felt like coming home.” No matter where our graduates go, Perkiomen remains a piece of their foundation.
And sometimes, their story circles back to campus as their children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews become part of the next generation of Perkiomenites.
Read about the shared experiences of some of our Perkiomen legacy families in the following stories.
Joseph M. Hill, Jr. ’62 and Joseph M. Hill ’29
Joseph M. Hill, Esq. ’29 Joseph M. Hill, Jr., Esq. ’62
Father and son, Joseph M. Hill, Esq. ’29 and Joseph M. Hill, Jr., Esq. ’62, share more than DNA. They share an alma mater and a career path.
Born and raised in Lebanon, Pa., Joe Hill was eager to find new opportunities at Perkiomen School. Determined to be the first of his family to attend college, he participated in a work scholarship program during the summers of 1927 and 1928 to support his tuition. His parents had not planned to send him to college, but Joe didn’t want to work in the steel mill back home. Despite only attending Perkiomen for two postgraduate years, Joe was an outgoing, wellliked community member within his athletic teams and leadership organizations. Unsurprisingly, he was elected Senior Class President.
After graduation, he took his athletic talent to Colgate University playing right guard on their legendary 1932 undefeated and unscored-upon football team. For this, he was named to the All-East team and received All-American honorable mention. Continuing to challenge himself intellectually, he entered Harvard Law School. During this time, he worked as an assistant to the University’s football line coach, crossing paths with the young John F. Kennedy and his brother Joseph Kennedy, Jr., who played on the team.
When he finished his law degree, Hill returned to Lebanon to begin his career. In 1971, he and his son opened Hill & Hill Attorneys, practicing together for 29 years until his passing. During his 60-year career, Joe was an assistant attorney general and served and served as secretary of the Lebanon County Bar Association for more than 50 years. In 1981, he was one of the first inductees to Perkiomen’s Hall of Athletic Honor.
Hill’s son, known as Michael ’62, came to Perkiomen as a sophomore. During his first year, he, too, had a work scholarship and earned financial assistance by cleaning the gym and serving as head waiter at dinner. He also played football. The thing Michael remembers most fondly is the camaraderie between students during his three years.
“That group of 200 students was a brotherhood,” he says. “We looked out for one another and would have done anything if someone was in need.” They also had a knack for mischief. The night before graduation, he and his classmates carried Athletic Director Hal Cragin’s Volkswagen up the front steps of Kriebel Hall and into the corridor as their final goodbye to the school and each other.
Michael went on to Alfred University and Mercer University School of Law. During his 37-and-a-half-year law career, in addition to working at the family firm, he was a part-time assistant district attorney in Lebanon County and served as legal counsel to the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee.
While the two attended Perkiomen 40 years apart, they both credit the school as a turning point in their young lives. For Joe, the rigorous courses and competitive athletic programs prepared him to apply to an elite university,
Taehoon (Andy) Yang ’14 and Sung-Sik Yang ’84
opening doors beyond his greatest imagination. For Michael, it fostered a sense of purpose and discipline that would guide his career and life.
Sung-Sik Yang ’84
Taehoon
(Andy) Yang ’14
Sung-Sik Yang ’84 arrived at Perkiomen in April of his sophomore year, and while he was a mid-year student, he immediately felt at home as this was the American school experience that he had been searching for.
“My schooling until this point focused on memorization and taking exams,” Sung remembers, “but my parents wanted me to have educational opportunities beyond the core academic subjects. Here, the classes were more creative and discussion based. I also got to take electives, play sports, and meet people from different cultures.”
At the time, Sung was the only Korean student, so it was easy to branch out to become friends with classmates of various backgrounds. He says, “Our teachers encouraged us to blend with different groups and learn from each other.”
When asked about his favorite teachers and mentors, Sung responds, “Everyone was so welcoming. The faculty and staff treated me as their own.” Additionally, Sung is grateful for the kindness from his classmates John Hallahan ’84, Ken Jenning ’84, Marc Vernon ’84, and their families. Since international travel was more difficult in the 80s, these families took him under their wings and hosted him during extended breaks. The bonds between these friends are strong, and they still talk multiple times each day.
Sung received his bachelor’s degree from Drexel University and his MBA from The Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. With expertise in global product management strategy, he is happy to give back to Perkiomen School on the Board. Fellow Board Member Luanne Stauffer appreciates Sung’s loyalty and service. “Perkiomen is a place where he has dedicated his heart,” she shares. “As a student, an alumnus, and a trustee, Sung
has delivered a global perspective. Both his travels and business connect him to different viewpoints.”
While he retired from the Board in 2021 with a full sendoff, he rotated back on in 2024 with the desire to continue serving his alma mater. He is also a regular at alumni gatherings. At these events, he enjoys the opportunity to reconnect with his contemporaries and make new connections with Perkiomenites of different eras through a shared love for the school.
“I dedicate myself to the school as much as possible,” Sung says. “The personal connections and skills I gained at Perkiomen propelled me to where I am. What I learned here, I still use— to seek challenge, to be a risk taker, and to respect others.”
Trotter, during the broadcast of the moon landing. That summer also brought Woodstock, and later that year, the first Earth Day. It was a moment of national transformation, and Perkiomen was evolving too, although at a slower rate.
When Sung’s nephew, Taehoon ’14 (Andy), was looking for a similar experience, their family knew just the place. He says, “We’ve both had really great lives thanks to our Perkiomen educations, and that’s why I keep coming back.”
Dean and Mrs. Lytle and Walter (Class of 1899) and Katherine Hollenbach chaperoned two bus trips for blazer-clad summer school students to the newly-opened Spectrum Arena in South Philadelphia. James Brown was the first show. A week later Led Zeppelin headlined the Spectrum’s summer pop festival. Looking over at the chaperones, Larry remembers the Lytles and Hollenbachs literally frozen into their seats by the pounding music of such Zeppelin songs as “Dazed and Confused!” Meanwhile, the older, more savvy boys escaped to the Spectrum’s corridors to shed their ties and blazers.
As described by former faculty Bill Baker in Perkiomen: Here’s to You, A Centennial History of Perkiomen School, youth of that era revolted against the establishment, flaunting contempt for old forms and values, and this revolt hit the hardest at colleges and preparatory schools.
Reflecting on his Perkiomen journey, he says, “I’ve always been proud to be a Perkiomen alumnus, but that became even more special when Andy became a student and then alumnus. Beyond this, I consider everyone at Perkiomen to be family, so I’m just very proud.”
Larry Cohen ’72
David Cohen ’74 Risa Cohen ’77
Barbara Ihns ’78 Carol Weber ’78
The story of the Cohen and Weber family at Perkiomen spans the 70s documenting an era of evolution within Perkiomen’s history. It started with Larry ’72 in 1969 and then David ’74. A few years later, their sisters Risa ’77 and Barbara ’78, and cousin Carol ’78 followed. The family connection began even earlier when their second cousin Robert Markowitz graduated in the Class of 1965.
In 1969, five girls arrived on campus, the first since the turn of the century in efforts toward economic and social stability. By 1972, there were 30 female students, and even more when David graduated in 1974. There was a transition from blazers, ties, and clean haircuts (which were rigidly enforced by Dean Lytle) to statement pieces like their dad’s green army jacket (Larry’s favorite) and the rise of long hair.
As the school entered the 70s, the older faculty transitioned and a younger group, including a new headmaster, James Brown, Chaplin George Thomas and his wife Midge, and a new dean, Paul Hausman, and his wife Carla, bringing a new perspective and energy to the campus culture. Jean Thornburg Thobaben also arrived, beginning a 40-year career as an art teacher.
“As a new college graduate, Jean was young and enthusiastic,” says David, “and this helped her to build a great connection with her students.”
Parents Norman and Paula Cohen first learned about Perkiomen through fellow members of the Pottstown’s Congregation Mercy & Truth Synagogue. Back then, a number of Jewish families of Pottstown turned to Perkiomen School seeking greater educational opportunities. A closeknit group, many fathers owned or worked in retail businesses on High Street, the town’s main shopping thoroughfare; some served in the medical or law profession.
Since Larry was one of several Perkiomen kids from the Chicken Hill section of Pottstown, he spent many rides in one of the neighborhood family’s station wagons making the daily trips along Route 663 to Pennsburg and back to Pottstown. When David began as a freshman in 1970, Larry had received his driver’s license, providing great relief for the parents to have another chauffeur.
Perkiomen’s growing female student population opened new doors for the daughters of these same Pottstown families. By this time, the dress code had loosened even further. During the academic day, students had to wear collared shirts, and their jeans could not have rips or too many patches. Outside of that and triweekly formal dinners, they could wear almost anything else, with overalls being popular.
Both arriving in 1974, Risa and Barbara loved being day students.
“It was the best of both worlds to go home at the end of the day and come back the next,” says Risa. Additionally, with a car at their disposal, the Cohen sisters had a social edge among their classmates.
Reflecting on their school years, Larry (1969-72) and David (1970-74) describe the shift in Perkiomen’s culture as dramatic. During a pre-enrollment residential summer program, Larry remembers watching television in Duyckinck Hall with dorm parents, Doug and Benita
The Cohens’ maternal cousin, Carol Weber, joined them, coming from Long Island as a boarding student. While their families were close before, living on campus just miles away gave Carol the opportunity to be near her Aunt Paula, Risa, and Barbara.
“Perkiomen gave me a sense of home that I had never had,” says Carol. “We were like family - especially those
Perkiomen Pairs continued from previous page
of us who were boarders - and have continued to be there for each other, even after many years of busy lives and reconnecting.” Off-campus, she formed lifelong bonds through the Cohens’ circle, including with the late Donna Greiner Printz ’75, a second generation Perkiomen alumna. Donna had married Alan Printz ’74 — another Pottstown day student from the synagogue and downtown business community— and their children, Heather ’02 and Sean ’12 are alumni, too!
Carol’s work in theater at Perkiomen inspired her to pursue a degree in theater design and technology from a top theater college.
The school’s small size meant big opportunities to get involved and step out of one’s comfort zone.
“People are always surprised when I tell them about my high school activities,” says Risa. “At 5’2”, I played basketball, and although I barely ever wore dresses, I was a cheerleader. My Perkiomen experience showed me that I can do just about anything. Thanks to this environment, I’m more adaptable and not scared when I’m in new situations.” This has served her well in her career as a clinical social worker.
Barbara’s memories are filled with fresh air and freedom. She fondly recalls singing and laughing while traveling from building to building between classes and playing frisbee on what is now the Campus Green. She loved being outdoors, even in the rain. Now, decades into her teaching career, she reflects on how important it is for students to find balance and movement during the day.
She also remembers walking to the Valley Diner on Pottstown Avenue for a coffee and cinnamon roll to split with friends. “While my siblings and I had worked for the family business all our lives, having this independence at Perkiomen was the first time I really felt like I was ‘adulting,’” she shares.
Barbara also loved being on the field hockey team with Coach Sue “Sweet Sue” Geisinger. At the time, Perkiomen did not offer spring sports for girls. Playing on the boys’ lacrosse team lasted one day, as she quickly learned the difference between the teams. “But kudos to the coach for letting me give it a try!” she says. Her other passion was
theater, and she remembers Kehs Hall being one of the most welcoming places on campus as well as camping trips hosted by English Department Chair Jim Weeks.
In addition to the kids, Norman and Paula Cohen were also involved. Serving as the Vice President of the Parent’s Association, Paula was a proud Perkiomen mom and helped the school in any way she could. Barbara remembers when their mother was able to sneak away from the family business, Royal Shoe Store on High Street, for a couple of hours to catch one of the girls’ field hockey or basketball games. Their father, tied to the store during the day, joined her for David, Barbara, and Carol’s theater performances. For her involvement, Mrs. Cohen was honored with an honorary degree in 1978 and a Perkiomen rocking chair which she cherished for many years.
“Our parents supported us being at Perkiomen and gave so much of themselves to the school,” says Risa. “Even though we didn’t attend the school at the same time, we knew it was something special. It’s a part of our culture to be invested in education. Additionally, when our father returned from World War II, he had to support his family. Because he did not have the opportunity for higher education that his siblings did, he made sure that his kids would have a great educational experience. That started with a place like Perkiomen, knowing that it would be a wonderful springboard for whatever we wanted to do. Now, all of my siblings have graduate degrees.”
For these experiences, Larry, David, Risa, Barbara, and Carol are happy to give back to their alma mater.
Despite the turbulent era of the early 70s, Larry and David agree that Perkiomen’s nurturing environment, small class sizes, enthusiastic teachers, and individual attention made a huge difference in their lives. Both attended their 50th class reunions, and David has included Perkiomen in his will. Through the years, Larry has returned to campus to deliver presentations based on his experiences as a U.S. diplomat and to speak with classes about current events.
“I certainly don’t have this relationship with my college or grad school,” says Larry. “I’m not a big donor to Perkiomen, but I hope that my consistency each year encourages others to participate.”
Risa agrees. “I give back to Perkiomen more than any of my other schools,” she says. “They were there for me, and I want to do the same.”
Cousin Carol lovingly encourages the others to show up for events and is thrilled that Larry and Risa have returned to the area after decades away. Carol has proudly attended every Reunion and Alumni Weekend since graduation and has included Perkiomen in her estate plans. This past fall, she spoke about her career in interior design during Arts Month.
“Perkiomen is family,” she says, “It has been a constant in my life and a community I can always return to. Having blood family who are also alumni makes it even more special. Being a legacy family, it is an honor to pass on the Perkiomen ‘loyal, tried, and true’ philosophy.”
Barbara Ihns ’78, Risa Cohen ’77, Carol Weber ’78, David Cohen ’74, and Larry Cohen ’72
Joey Peña ’14 Isaac Peña ’23
When you know someone at Perkiomen, you automatically become part of the Panther family. After years of watching his uncle, Joseph Peña ’14, play Perkiomen baseball, Isaac Peña ’23 took it a step further, becoming a Perkiomen Panther himself.
“I had always heard good things from the kids who went to boarding school,” says Joey. “As I thought about my future, I wanted to put myself in a better position for college with a competitive academic schedule.”
Joey discovered Perkiomen through The Boys’ Club of New York. While baseball was a major factor in his decision to come to Perkiomen, the key goal was to improve his academics. He found success in both areas, grateful for teachers like Ms. Segear and Mrs. Baker who provided unwavering support during conference periods. He also formed friendships with classmates and teammates from the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and Japan.
When his family made the trip from Brooklyn to cheer on the Panthers, Joey’s 7-year-old nephew Isaac could be found in the dugout at Baker Field, hanging out with the older boys. Isaac says, “Joey’s involvement in baseball inspired me to pursue the sport. At games, I got to spend time with his teammates like Naquan Holden ’15, Alex Soriano ’15, Esteban Martinez ’13, and Angel Lopez ’15. They’re all really good guys and I looked up to them when I was a little kid.”
After Perkiomen, Joey played baseball at St. Thomas Aquinas College while studying sports management and marketing. He was initially drafted by the Oakland Athletics then played for the Vermont Lake Monsters and Beloit Snappers.
In fall 2020, his now-tenth grade nephew, Isaac, took the same leap from Brooklyn to boarding school. “Growing up in the same household, I wanted to follow his footsteps to play baseball at Perkiomen because I saw the success he had on and off the field.”
Six years after Joey’s graduation, Isaac’s version of Perkiomen had new teachers, a new Head of School, and Institutes, in addition to social distancing and plexiglass of the COVID era.
“I loved my time at Perkiomen,” says Joey, “and alumni of my generation are doing well, however, it was neat to see how the school grew between my time and Isaac’s. Today, the class offerings and opportunities to build independence give Perk a more collegiate feel.”
Despite these changes, Isaac shared many of the core experiences that Joey had such as strong relationships with his friends and faculty and lessons in responsibility. One time, he received a C+ as a midterm grade and Coach Baker made him do a study hall in his office during free periods. “It wasn’t fun,” Issac remembers, “but it helped me because I didn’t get anything below a B after that!”
Those study habits and discipline followed Isaac into college as he majors in sports management and plays
baseball at St. Thomas Aquinas. Thinking back to his time at Perkiomen, he says, “I tell people all the time that Perk was the best three years for my education. It gave me so many friends and opportunities. This feeling is something that you don’t get anywhere else, even when in college.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Joey transitioned from professional athlete to coach and educator. Today, with a master’s in physical education, he’s a physical education teacher and Head Baseball Coach at a Staten Island high school— his school’s mascot is also a panther! Outside of his primary job, he coaches U13 and U12 travel teams.
In his roles, Joey passes along wisdom from Coach Baker: Give it 110%. Focus on what you can control and don’t get upset about the things you can’t.
He also talks openly about his boarding school experience.
“I think boarding school really grows people,” he says. “When I bring it up to my athletes, I say, ‘Listen, if you have the opportunity, even for a year, please give it a shot.’ Even if I lose a great kid, I’m so excited for them to have the transformational experience that I did. If I had 25 chances to redo high school, I’d choose Perkiomen 25 times. The line loyal, tried, and true from the alma mater sticks with me, and I will always be a proud alum because of the relationships and opportunities it gave me.”
Joey has played in several Alumni Baseball Games, as a student and an alumnus. “It’s cool to be on the other side of it and see how much the program grows through the years,” he says.
Once Isaac finishes college, he also plans to return for Alumni Baseball. Recalling the fun he had at the event his senior year, he says, “It was nice to connect with older generations of players. Even though there were many years between our time at Perkiomen, we still had a lot of similarities because it’s ‘Bakerball’!”
Until then, he says, “It’s easy to stay connected with people from Perkiomen because we’re like brothers. My friends and I experienced a lot of changes and growth during our teen years, but we made it through, together.”
Joey Peña ’14 and Isaac Peña ’23
Perkiomen Pairs continued
Le Anh Quan Pham ’25 and Le Minh Quan Pham ’25 are one of two sets of twins in the Class of 2025, receiving their diplomas with Head of School Mark A. Devey.
Reunion Weekend
The weather may not have been ideal, but the spirit of camaraderie was sky-high during Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2025. The weekend was filled with heartfelt conversations, the final Robbie’s sales, and meaningful connections formed across generations. Alumni reminisced about their favorite teachers, time in the classroom, beloved traditions, and unforgettable sports moments.
A strong sense of shared purpose was evident in discussions about the carefully crafted direction the school is taking. The future is bright—and captivating—thanks to the momentum of the Our Moment to Lead campaign, which is drawing to a successful close.
One of the highlights of the weekend was the tour of the new student center with Head of School
Mark A. Devey. Alumni left inspired and eager to return for the 150th Anniversary Celebration and the official public opening of the student center on October 25, 2025.
At Perkiomen, it’s our sense of unity and lifelong community that makes us so special. Every alum is a valued member, contributing to the continued growth and success of our school.
Mark your calendars now for next year’s Reunion and Alumni Weekend: June 5–7, 2026!
The purple and the gold
Wade Neiman ’78 and his wife Andrea enjoy the evening with Carol Weber ’78 and John Telese.
Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2025
The Kolbe Hall porch is always a great spot for a laugh, as Cheryl Price ’73 and Kevin
Good times on the campus
Congratulations
the
A must-see during Reunion and Alumni Weekend: our student-curated display celebrating Perkiomen’s 150th anniversary.
tour with Beth Egber, Phil Lloyd ’65, Mark Egber ’65, and Peggy Lloyd.
Class of 1975 classmates Braxton Ward and Ellen Lamar stroll down memory lane during Saturday’s lunch.
Kirkwood ’81 remind us.
to
60th Reunion class—Paul Prince, Mark Egber, and Phil Lloyd!
Class of 1967 classmates Andy Smith and Michael Krajsa catch up over lunch.
Phil Lloyd at the future site of Lloyd’s!
Head of School
Mark A. Devey led group tours of the new Student Center. Mark your calendar for the big night— October 25, 2025!
Henny Ramos ’19 and Sam Glavin ’18 enjoy the Saturday evening events.
Joe Schwartz ’75, Tom Perkins ’74, and Peter George ’75 exchange stories under the tent.
Tim Turner ’14 really made Mrs. Baker laugh—wonder what he was saying?
Erika Thomenius ’92 had a blast staying in the dorm and enjoying everything the weekend had to offer.
Kelly Mayer Glinski ’88 had a great time catching up with friends.
We’re sure Mr. Longstreth has a story or two for Rex Xu ’19 and Krystal Wang ’19.
Alumni from across the generations share time together at the tent. Front row: Lisa Baas ’75, Joe Schwartz ’75, and Larry Levin ’74 Back row: Tom Perkins ’74, Peter George ’75, Rosemarie Grosso ’77, and Heather Printz Cvijic ’02
Reunion and Alumni
Always a weekend of smiles, as Wendy MacDonald ’72 and Jim Cochran ’71 can attest.
Victoria Mironov ’14 stopped by to join the Saturday evening festivities.
A Pottstown connection if we ever saw one—Alan Printz ’74 and Larry Cohen ’72
Always the first to check in for Reunion and Alumni Weekend, Tim Snyder ’82.
Phil Kelly ’72 and George Myers ’71 always bring joy to weekend conversations.
Julian Gentile ’10
Abi Rose-Craver ’14, a valued member of our alumni team, diligently carries out her duties—rain or shine, nothing can dampen our celebration!
Marcia Barone ’79 shares a moment of gratitude with Eric Kolbe ’61.
Gabe Delp ’18 and Wes Johnson ’17 of the bluegrass group Wildflower provided an evening of enjoyable music.
Alumni Weekend 2025
(center) catches up on Perkiomen’s baseball program with Kendall Baker and Sam Glavin ’18.
Class Notes
We do our best to share all the news we receive from alumni— including updates spotted on social media. If you have a class note, achievement, or update to share, please send it our way! If you think we may have missed something, don’t hesitate to let us know at alumni@perkiomen.org. We love hearing from you!
Alumni Arts Presentations
We are grateful to our alumni who generously participated in the Alumni Arts Presentations during October’s Arts Month celebrations. Whether joining in person or via Zoom, they shared valuable insights from a wide range of artistic fields—including artist management, film, television, costume design, and graphic arts. Thank you to Carol Ruth Weber ’78, Stephen Bluto ’81, Amy Hoppenfield Kay ’86, Jonathan Cianfrani ’00, Jane Lea ’96 and Brandon Stosuy, Leah Neuhauser ’03, Dan Pittman ’08, Gaetan DeSimone ’08, Isabel Barone ’17, and Kyle Ramseur ’18 for enriching the experience!
1940s
t This fall, Dick Malburg ’47 stopped by to tour campus and tell stories of Perkiomen past with his friend, a current Perkiomen parent. At age 100, he is our oldest known alum!
1960s
u Bob Morgan ’64 hosted Alumni Director Diana WeirSmith ’85, P ’19 as his guest at the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize Ceremony on April 21, 2025. The two also spent time at Filoli House and Garden to cap off Earth Week celebrations.
u David Sabin ’67 graciously hosted Director of Development Karl Welsh and Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 at his home and business Sabina Vineyards in the Mayacamas Range. Located in the western part of St. Helena, CA, the home and vineyard are surrounded by original Spanish Mission olive trees, planted in the 1800s to line the road to the historic Bale Grist Mill State Park. These trees now help produce Sabin Olive Oil! If you’re planning a trip to Napa, be sure to include Sabina Vineyards in your itinerary!
1970s
u LeAnn Ashford ’78 is the author and illustrator of Pandemic ABCs, A Brief History of a Very Weird Time, now available on Amazon. Released in January 2025, the book captures the lighter side of the COVID experience, highlighting memorable moments like sourdough starters, the toilet paper shortage, TikTok dances, and Tiger King. Illustrated in watercolor and ink, it focuses on the fun and funny aspects of the pandemic, steering clear of the heavy or controversial. A perfect conversation starter, Pandemic ABCs offers future generations a humorous glimpse into our unique times.
Andrew “Drew” Pedrick ’76 generously shared his time and expertise with students in Perkiomen’s Design Institute this spring, collaborating with them via Zoom. Drew is the Principal
at McTigue Architecture, a firm currently focused on helping families rebuild their homes after the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. His professional insight and mentorship offered students a meaningful, real-world connection between design and community impact.
t Marcia Moll Barone ’79, P ’14, ’17 enjoyed dinner with Miles Longstreth ’17 in Miami earlier this year. Marcia was in town for work with Lehigh University but found time to catch up with Miles during her visit.
1980s
Steve Bluto’s ’81 painting “Gallant Chaps” was on display at the 41st Schaefer Marine Exhibition in Newport, RI in the fall of 2024.
Congratulations to George Procak ’82, who was inducted into the Navy Rugby Alumni Association Hall of Fame. George’s induction highlights his distinguished career as a former USMC Infantry Platoon Commander and Company XO, and currently works as an SAP Functional Architect with Lumen Technologies. George was a starting prop on both the 1985 and 1986 Navy teams, anchoring a dominant pack. He earned spots on the All-East Team and the US Combined Services U23 Team, and along with teammate Dave Long, became one of Navy’s first rugby All-Americans. After graduation, George continued his outstanding rugby career with the All-Marine Team and the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club in San Diego. He is also a member of the 50 States Marathon Club, having completed a marathon in every state. Congratulations, George!
Bapi Maitra ’83 connected with Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P’ 19 this spring. He spent time working in Europe and Japan before settling down in Winnetka, IL.
Derek Riddle ’83 is working for John Deere in Moline, IL. He enjoys all the area has to offer, including some great biking and running trails.
Rich Korson ’88 and co-author Josh Bycel recently released Sports Superheroes Volume 1: Stephen Curry, a graphic novel that explores the rise of the Golden State Warriors star and what it truly means to be a superhero. Korson is President of SmartLess Media and Founder of Radio Point. He also serves as Executive Producer at
Large for Penguin Workshop where he develops and produces kids and family content. Korson began his media career on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and has since built a dynamic career in storytelling across platforms.
1990s
Tom Mariano ’90, Head Coach of Pace University Men’s Lacrosse, was honored with the prestigious Howdy Myers Man of the Year Award by the IMLCA and USILA. In his 11 seasons at Pace, Tom has elevated the program to new heights, including an NCAA Tournament appearance and multiple top 10 national rankings. Beyond his coaching achievements, he has served as USILA president since 2019 and has led professional teams to playoff success. Mariano expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing his dedication to giving back to the sport. Perkiomen Athletics proudly congratulates Coach Mariano on this well-deserved recognition.
Frank Nicholas, III ’93 was named Head Coach of the New South Whalers Box Lacrosse Team. He led the team through the Box National in Melbourne, Australia!
Captain Suzanne Brugler ’94 was recently featured on the Academy Insider podcast, where she shared insights into the Foreign Area Officer (FAO) community. She discussed key aspects of the FAO role, including language training, cultural immersion, and her firsthand experiences in the field. Currently, Suzanne serves as the Naval Mission Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, where she leads a team comprising Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard officers; Colombian Armada service members; locally employed staff; and Colombian foreign nationals.
2000s
Jonathan Cianfrani ’00 is an Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker whose work spans a wide range of subjects—from food and travel to scientific mysteries and outdoor adventures. As an editor, producer, and director, Jonathan is passionate about storytelling, crafting compelling narratives that inform, inspire, and entertain. His impressive credits include acclaimed shows such as Masterclass (HBO), Mind of a Chef (PBS), Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown (CNN), and My Next Guest with David Letterman (Netflix).
Noelle Brangman Young ’05 has been making significant strides in marine conservation and sustainable practices. She has worked as a consultant with Greenpeace and is currently advising the Caribbean Sustainable Aquaculture Company. In 2024, Noelle was selected to represent Bermuda in the Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy, a prestigious program that chose 50
young leaders from across the region through a highly competitive process. Funded by the Open Society Foundations, this fivemonth academy focuses on international policies, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience, preparing participants to tackle critical challenges facing Caribbean communities. Congratulations, Noelle!
Anna Dixon ’05 participated in a group photo exhibition titled FOCUS at the Harrington Art Studio in March 2025. The show featured her striking photography of Montana and the breathtaking scenery of Colorado. You can follow her work on Instagram: @anna.dixonart
Congratulations to Caitlin Romasco ’05! Caitlin was recently named a Rising Star by the Northeast Real Estate Journal. She is a Litigation Partner at Casner & Edwards, LLP, and this recognition honors professionals who are making a strong impact within their firms and across the New England commercial real estate industry. Caitlin was recognized for her skill in navigating complex litigation matters and her strategic, client-centered approach that has had a lasting impact at Casner.
t Congratulations to Alyssa Romasco ’06! Alyssa married Andrew Rosenbush in October 2024. She is a Physician Assistant in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Boston Medical Center. Wishing the happy couple all the best in this exciting new chapter!
Omar Ginlock ’09 was honored as a Distinguished Man during Black History Month by the Newark School of Data Science and Information Technology. He participated in a discussion panel alongside other award recipients, representing various industry fields. Omar currently teaches computer science in Newark Public Schools.
2010s
Dr. Esteban Martinez Francia ’13 has joined MCR Chiropractic in Somerset, MA. He earned his B.S. in biology from Stetson University, followed by a M.S. in medical sciences from Ponce Health Sciences University. Esteban went on to complete both his Doctor of Chiropractic and a M.S. in sports medicine at the University of Western States. Congratulations, Dr. Martinez Francia!
u Tony Lin ’18 attended the Los Angeles Area Gathering in April. He is currently pursuing a Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) at UC Berkeley and previously earned a Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence from the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering. Prior, Tony earned a BS in Computer Science at UC San Diego. He now works as a data scientist at Everlast Roofing, a manufacturer of high-performance metal roofing and siding materials serving the architectural, commercial, industrial, agricultural, post-frame, and residential markets.
u Carlos Torres ’19 is playing in the Colorado Rockies Organization with the Hartford Yard Goats, and lives in AZ while training in the off-season. He caught up with his Perkiomen Mom Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19.
Elise Coby ’19 is pursuing an M.S. in coastal and ocean policy at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She has presented at the Shape of the Coast Legal Conference, sponsored by the North Carolina Sea Grant and the NC Department of Environmental Quality. Elise currently serves as a Policy and Law Fellow with the North Carolina Sea Grant’s Coastal Science and Policy Program.
Keeshawn Kellman ’19 and Florida Gulf Coast University Men’s Basketball team competed in the CBI tournament. After the season, he signed a pro contract to play with MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg in the Basketball Bundesliga (top league in Germany).
Tautvydas Kupstas ’19, after being traded to Fabo Herons Montecatini in the Serie B league of Italy, helped lead the Herons to a League Finale appearance. As they seek promotion into Serie, Kupstas has averaged 10.5 pts shooting 39% from deep in 26 games!
Zoey (Zexuan) Liu ’19 returned to campus as a guest speaker in Dr. Benjamin Roig’s class. Zoey earned her undergraduate degree in physics from UC Irvine and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in materials science and engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. During her visit, students had the opportunity to learn about her undergraduate and graduate research and ask questions about the field of materials science. Zoey’s advice to Perkiomen students: “There’s so much to learn about our world! Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your mentors!”
2020s
t Zhiyang Zhu ’20 stopped by campus to pick up his diploma. As a member of the class of 2020, he missed the opportunity to walk in graduation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tony Holden ’21 capped off one of the most remarkable seasons ever by an Ursinus College running back by being named the 2024-25 Most Outstanding Male Athlete. He earned D3football.com All-Region Third Team honors and was named both the Centennial Conference Offensive Player of the Year and a First Team All-Centennial selection. Holden led the Centennial Conference in rushing yards (1,316) and touchdowns, ranking 10th and 15th nationally in NCAA Division III, respectively.
u Honor Huff ’21 wrapped up a successful season with the University of Tennessee at
Chattanooga, culminating in a National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship. He recently caught up with Head of School Mark A. Devey on the road to the tournament. Looking ahead, Honor will be transferring to West Virginia University, where he’ll continue his collegiate basketball career next season.
Megan Hughes ’21 has been named a 2025 Fulbright Awardee and will serve as an English Teaching Assistant in Germany. Megan is currently a student at the University of Mississippi and a Stamps Scholar—a prestigious distinction awarded through the nationally renowned Stamps Scholars Program. The Stamps Scholar program supports exceptional students through multi-year scholarships and empowers them to become impactful leaders across society. Megan’s selection reflects her academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to global engagement. Well done, Megan!
Lola Mejias ’21, who played volleyball at Albright College, was named to the MAC Commonwealth’s 2024 All-Conference team as an honorable mention. She has appeared in 282 sets for her career and recorded a career-high 660 assists in her final season with the team. Mejias dished out 40 or more assists on four separate occasions, with a season high of 50 coming in Albright’s win over Penn St. Mont Alto. In addition to her 1759 career assists, Lola also recorded a career high 67 kills to surpass the 200 kill mark in her career.
Rianne Moll ’21, Ursinus College Class of 2025, presented her research at the National Strength and Conditioning Association Convention in July 2024. Her study, conducted in collaboration with a fellow Ursinus student, examined how specific types of music impact both the perception and performance of exercise. Among 50 undergraduate presenters, Rianne was honored as the conference’s top undergraduate researcher. Congratulations, Rianne!
Daouda Dembele ’22 and the Assumption Greyhounds reached the D2 Elite Eight for Men’s Basketball!
Phoenix Suns player Ryan Dunn ’22 was one of few athletes traveling to Singapore on June 25-29. The five-day event will bring together 23 boys’ and girls’ teams from across 11 countries in the Asia-Pacific region as part of a broader basketball and entertainment showcase hosted by the NBA.
Drew Fleury ’22 earned his second consecutive Third Team AllConference honor from the Great Northeast Athletic Conference. A lacrosse standout at Norwich University, Fleury emerged as one of the Cadets’ most prolific offensive threats, finishing the season with a team-leading 35 goals and 12 assists for 47 points. He tallied five hat tricks, including dominant performances with eight points against Plattsburgh State and six points against Lasell University to start the season. In addition to his scoring power, Fleury was a force on the field, recording a season-high 11 ground balls against Vermont State University Castleton.
Congratulations to Thomas Haugh ’22 and the Florida Gators on their national championship in men’s basketball! In February 2025, Thomas helped lead the Florida Gators to a stunning victory over the #1 Auburn Tigers, posting 16 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks. In the next game against #22 Mississippi State, he nearly recorded a triple-double with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals—becoming the first SEC player since John Wall in 2010 to achieve a stat line of 15+ points, 8+ rebounds, 8+ assists, and multiple blocks and steals. Closing the season, Thomas averaged 12.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, helping the Gators secure a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
He was named to the 2025 West Region All-Tournament Team after averaging 13.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3 assists across four games. Haugh was instrumental in the Gators’ Elite Eight comeback victory over Texas Tech, scoring 20 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
Xaivian Lee ’22 will join Thomas Haugh ’22 on the Florida Gators for the 2025-26 season. Lee previously played for Princeton University, where he earned First Team Ivy League honors twice. During his junior and senior years, he had a standout record, averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game in the 2024-25 season. Known for his impressive assist-to-turnover ratio and strong three-point shooting, Xaivian has made a significant impact on the court. Notably, Xaivian is the first college athlete to sign a shoe deal with an international brand. His partnership with Serious Players Only includes exclusive player shoe and apparel launches in 2025, with his first signature sneaker debuting in 2026, coinciding with his anticipated NBA entry. A dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada with South Korean heritage, Lee is uniquely positioned to make a global impact both on and off the court. Phil Byriel ’21 and Xaivian clinched a berth in Ivy Madness with their Princeton teammates this year.
Anh Man ’22 is thriving at Temple University, where she keeps a full schedule. She has served as President of Temple’s Supply Chain Association, worked as a MoneyGuard Sales Intern at Lincoln Financial, and held the role of Assistant Project Lead for Temple’s Consulting Club. Her team recently earned second place in the World Trade Association’s Regional Case Competition. Congratulations, Anh!
Sam Pohlman ’22 and teammates at Wesleyan University faced Marley Stewart ’24 and the Trinity Bantams in the D3 National Championship for Men’s Basketball, with Trinity winning the title.
Amelia (Mia) Skuraton ’22, a double major in Psychology and Sports Medicine at Pepperdine University, recently shared on LinkedIn that she was selected as a speaker at the NCAA’s Career in Sports Forum (CSF). The forum brought together 200 studentathletes from NCAA institutions across all three divisions— each one carefully chosen for their drive, leadership, and potential. Mia described the experience as an invaluable opportunity to gain new perspectives, build meaningful relationships, deeply with peers and professionals in the sports industry. Throughout the week, the CSF cohort had the privilege of learning from accomplished speakers and leaders in the field. Mia reflected on the experience as one of great personal and professional growth, stating that “the value of what we learned this week is insurmountable.”
Sophia Taylor ’22, a student at Washington and Lee University, recently shared exciting news on LinkedIn: she has been hired by Helping Hands, Inc. to participate in their Shore Program for the summer of 2025. Helping Hands provides programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, with a focus on personalized care in the least restrictive environment. Sophia expressed her enthusiasm about building meaningful relationships and strengthening her ethical and clinical skills for future opportunities. Congratulations, Sophia!
Christian Weddington ’22 is heading to Seattle this summer, where he has accepted a Sports Marketing Events Internship with Brooks Running. Over the past 14 months, Christian has worked with Brooks as an NIL Brand Partner at Fordham University, a role that sparked his passion for storytelling through sports and helped pave the way for this exciting next chapter. Congratulations, Christian!
Tyler Merchant ’23 is the starting lacrosse goalie at Stevenson University. Tyler and his teammates made it to the Second Round of the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament.
Bobby Rosenberger ’23 helped lead the Saint Francis University men’s basketball team to its first Northeast Conference (NEC) Championship since 1991. With a 46-43 victory over top-seeded CCSU, the Red Flash clinched a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 33 years. A finance major with a 3.83 GPA, Bobby was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic AllDistrict Team. As a sophomore and team captain, Bobby played a key role in the Red Flash’s historic season.
Brant Byers ’23 of Miami (OH) and Macon Emory ’24 at Delaware advanced to their respective conference title games for Men’s Basketball.
Erick Diaz ’24 had a stellar debut season on the baseball field for Dominican University, New York. His performance earned him numerous accolades, highlighting his impact as a first-year player. Erick was named to the ABCA/Rawlings East All-Region First Team, the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) All-East Region First Team, and the D2CCA All-East Region First Team. He also earned a spot on the All-CACC First Team. Throughout the season, Erick was recognized multiple times by the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC), earning one CACC Player of the Week honor, two CACC Rookie of the Week nods, and a place on the CACC Weekly Honor Roll.
Rocky Grossman ’24 participated in the NCAA Division I Tournament with Towson University, after winning their conference championship. Congrats to Rocky and his teammates! They took it to the first round of the NCAA tournament, where they unfortunately lost to Princeton University, the 3 seed.
t Morgan Keeley ’24 is playing women’s lacrosse at Neumann University. Perkiomen’s Varsity Girls Lacrosse team had a chance to support Morgan!
Brenden McLeod ’24 and the RIT men’s lacrosse team earned the Liberty League championship and an automatic bid to the Division III NCAA Tournament. RIT received a bye to the second round and hosted the winner of Ohio Northern and Aurora on Saturday. RIT finished the season with an 18-1 record and was ranked 3rd in the nation. This marked their 15th consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
Co-Director of College Counseling Erin Davidson-Kellogg P ’28 visited Dominykas Neverbickas ’24 and Silvia Gianani ’23 at Gettysburg College. They were joined by Anabel Waplinger, a Perkiomen staff member and proud Gettysburg alum!
Dom Neverbickas ’24 and Kosta Radulovic ’24 won with Gettysburg College in the Men’s Basketball NCAA D3 Tournament.
Gatherings
u New York City Area Gathering October 9, 2024 at 230 Fifth
Row 1: Abi RoseCraver ’14, Aicha Ba ’13, Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19, Walden Maurissant ’03, John Williams ’13, Steve Bluto ’81, Suzette Bluto. Row 2: Kalifa Derrick, Head of School Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24, Naquan Holden ’15, Aidan O’Brien ’17, Tyson Butcher ’17, Josh Cruz ’17, Director of Development Karl Welsh, Tony Coleman ’14, Steve Berliner ’79, Assistant Athletic Director Kerrie Kosakowski. Present but not in the photo: Paul Ficalora ’70, Joyce Kim ’94, Kira Lonsdale ’17.
t Philadelphia Area Gathering October 22, 2024 at the Philadelphia Country Club hosted by Board Member Peter Sharkey ’03
Row 1: Abi Rose Craver ’14, Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19, Jennifer Adams Engelstad ’03, Jorge Otero Jimenez ’12, Don Frye ’69, John Williams ’13, Mikey Gama ’18, Sue Baker P ’86, ’91 FF, Ken Baker, P ’86, ’91 FF, R. Warren Schmidt ’81, Bruce Brittingham ’12, Naial Casanovas Mack ’16. Row 2: Steve Shiekman ’71, Bill Flick ’83, Chris Lawrence ’04, Sam Glavin ’18, Christian Westrom ’17, David Smith ’19, Peter Sharkey ’03. Row 3: Bill Campbell ’86, Jim Cochran ’71, Head of School Mark A. Devey P’21 ’24, Logan Rhoads ’18, Jim Sherman ’67, Chandler Gavin ’18, Ali Abbas ’19. Present but not in the photo: Noah Abbas ’20, Manny Ariza ’20, Michael Fienman ’02, Nate Leventhal ’69, Jeffrey Mack ’72, Wendy Yao ’99.
u LA Area Gathering April 23, 2025 at Chinois on Main
Row 1: Michael Steinberg, Sheeri Rockler Steinberg ’81, Alice Peeler ’24, Gloria Chen ’24, Tania Tolstykh ’24. Row 2: Linda Sehidoglu, Drew Pedrick ’76, Judy Devey P ’21, ’24, Karl Welsh, Head of School Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24, Richard Waisfisz ’86, Vika Sokolova ’21, Kevin Zhou ’19, Diana WeirSmith ’85, Amy Hoppenfield Kay ’86, Marianne Liggett, Danny Liggett ’81, Yan Zhang ’18.
In Memoriam
Norah Celeste Garcia ’26 was a beloved daughter, sister, friend, classmate, student-athlete, and musician. As the daughter of Perkiomen faculty member Bladimir Garcia and his wife, Betania, Norah was a cherished part of our school family, someone whose presence brought light and connection to all who knew her.
In the 2025 yearbook, her classmates shared words that reflect the heart of who Norah was: “Norah had a way of making everyone feel welcome. She was kind, open, and never had a judgmental word for anyone. People loved being around her because she was sunny, genuine, and always up for making new friends.”
Norah’s love for track and field showed her determination and passion—often seen running even during breaks simply because she enjoyed it. She was smart, driven, and widely admired by peers and teachers alike.
Norah will be remembered with deep love, warmth, and admiration. Her spirit lives on in the lives she touched and the joy she brought into the world.
Francis Figlear ’50 was a double son of Perkiomen—a proud graduate of the Class of 1950 and later a beloved faculty member, dorm parent, coach, and band leader. Affectionately known as “Fig,” he left an indelible legacy not only at Perkiomen, but throughout his distinguished career in institutional advancement.
Alumni
Rodney M. Birkins ’50
Williard F Reinhard ’56
John “Sandy” Auld ’58 HAH
Richard Hunt ’58
Dr. Richard S. Lisella ’58 HAH
Cornelius G. Sullivan, Jr. ’59 (FT)
John Stauffer ’62
Richard M. Boyer ’63
Peter K. Griffin ’64
Marshall J. Schwenk ’65
Gilbert W. Dobbins ’67
Paul D. Pickard ’67
Malcolm A. Luz ’68
Charles A. Ginyard ’75
Keith Guile ’75
Former Staff
Suzanne Boesch P’00
After serving as Planned Giving Officer at Allentown College, Francis went on to become a Senior Planned Gift Officer at Lehigh University. In every role, he brought a rare and meaningful blend of professionalism, warmth, and integrity. His work was never about transactions— it was about people, relationships, and building trust.
A mentor to many in the advancement profession, Francis was deeply admired for his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of connection. He taught others that fundraising, at its core, is an act of care and community.
His impact extended beyond higher education, lending his expertise as a consultant to institutions such as the Baseball Hall of Fame. Francis Figlear will be remembered not only for his professional excellence, but for the kindness, authenticity, and joy he brought to every corner of his life.
A remarkable man, Cornelius G. Sullivan, Jr. ’59, P ’87 was known for his gregarious nature, boundless energy, and deep devotion to family and community. His legacy at Perkiomen, both as an alumnus and a longtime trustee, reflects his enduring commitment to the school and its mission. Mr. Sullivan’s distinguished career spanned decades, from his contributions to the NASA Apollo 11 team to leadership roles at Holland America Line and beyond.
Yet, it was the way he lived—with joy, warmth, and a generous spirit—that left the greatest mark. His daughter Maura shared that he still had his class ring and a program from the 1958 Perkiomen School Drama and Glee Club Annual Homecoming Production, The Neil Sullivan Show
Harry R. Silverglide ’64, P ’05 was deeply proud of his Perkiomen roots and cherished the legacy of two generations walking its halls. His service on the Board of Trustees and his contributions to the growth and vitality of the school community brought him great joy and fulfillment. Fellow board members fondly remember Harry for his entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and innovation, qualities that left a lasting mark on Perkiomen. He was an early pioneer in the tech sector, with notable contributions to companies such as Extreme Networks.
As a student, Harry was a dedicated member of the soccer team, remembered by his teammates for his drive, determination, and passion on the field. His enduring commitment to Perkiomen and its mission will not be forgotten. Harry’s legacy continues through the lives he touched and the meaningful impact he made on the school he loved.
In
March, local photographer Steve Pestrock captured the moonrise over Kriebel Hall.
Perkiomen School
200 Seminary Street
Pennsburg, Pennsylvania 18073 USA
ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED
The Perkiomen community inspires students to risk becoming their best.
